Welcome to The Lunch Belle, a food website/blog that views the New York City + Los Angeles dining scenes through the lens - and belly - of a highly opinionated, critical, adorably quirky, and culinary-obsessed thirty-something year old.

In anticipation of my upcoming trip to NYC (ahem, tomorrow!), I couldn't wait a second longer to post this outstanding NY-centric Fall guide! It's got everything, from the top orchards for apple picking to the city's best bars to watch the football game!

Per the list, below, I've highlighted some of my favorite tidbits...but please find the full lineup *here.* Enjoy!

Photo found on: offmetro.com.

Where to Watch FOOTBALL

There are 248 Sports Bars in NYC:

54: # of flat screens at The Grayson, the East Village’s new football-watching spot

23: # of stops on the 1 train from Times Square to Bronx Alehouse, the no. 1 sports bar in NYC overall (on 238th Street, in the Bronx)

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The Resurgence of CIDER

When American settlers came to the New World, they found barley hard to grow, so they turned to apples for cider. By the 18th century, New England was producing over 300,000 gallons of cider a year. A lot of the apple trees planted by “Johnny Appleseed” didn’t survive prohibition however, and Americans later started planting and eating apples as snacks. Hard cider didn’t regain popularity, until... NOW!

Summer is upon us even though it's only 55 degrees and rainy! Are you in need of ideas for where to grab the city's hottest outdoor table, whether it's for drinks, snacks, or a meal? Here are two great guides to help get you started:

If you're coming to The Big Apple from another state or country, do yourself a favor and expand your dining horizons! For god's sake, avoid McDonald's - Olive Garden - Red Lobster - TGIFriday's - and the like. Support local business. Educate your mind and belly!

On that note, grab a pen. Because it makes sense to jot down which foods and beverages NYC is famous for:

...and remember, you don't come to Gotham for Southern-style BBQ or San Fransisco-style Mexican food. So do your homework and take advantage of what WE have to offer! Trust me, you'll be 'mighty glad you did.

For the *best* views of the Empire State Building, head over to Broadway, between 21st & 22nd Streets. Make sure you're standing on the Westside of the street. Now, go ahead and snap those priceless photos!